Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge
Explore Puget Sound's largest undisturbed estuary, teeming with wildlife on accessible boardwalks and trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos & wildlife
Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge
Best Time
Best light for photos & wildlife
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Puget Sound's largest undisturbed estuary, teeming with wildlife on accessible boardwalks and trails.
"A peaceful spot just off Hwy 101 to see wildlife up close."
🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive early or late to snag a spot. Weekdays are best!
💰 Entry Fee
Bring $3 cash or an America the Beautiful Pass. State passes not accepted.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Estuary Boardwalk
Puget Sound Estuary
A mile-long boardwalk offering stunning views of the largest undisturbed estuary in Puget Sound.
Wildlife Viewing Platforms
Various points along trails
Numerous platforms provide excellent vantage points for spotting diverse bird species, eagles, and other wildlife.
Nisqually River Delta
River Delta
Explore diverse habitats including marshes, mudflats, and forests, teeming with a wide variety of flora and fauna.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Parking
Respect the Wildlife and Rules
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive early or late to snag a spot. Weekdays are best!
💰 Entry Fee
Bring $3 cash or an America the Beautiful Pass. State passes not accepted.
🔭 Binoculars Essential
Enhance your wildlife viewing experience, especially for birds.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
Trails are flat, but comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive early or late to snag a spot. Weekdays are best!
💰 Entry Fee
Bring $3 cash or an America the Beautiful Pass. State passes not accepted.
🔭 Binoculars Essential
Enhance your wildlife viewing experience, especially for birds.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
Trails are flat, but comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Check Tides
Visit at different tidal stages for varied views and wildlife activity.
🚫 No Dogs or Running
Respect the rules for a peaceful wildlife sanctuary. :noentrysign:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the refuge for its accessible boardwalks, abundant wildlife, and peaceful atmosphere, making it a great spot for families and nature lovers. While parking can be challenging during peak times, the natural beauty and educational opportunities make it a worthwhile visit for many.
"Easy access, nice well capped wooden boardwalk going way out into the marsh. There are two main hikes - one out and back and one loop. It was very busy when we were there in a little bit tight for parking.
Ranger told us they don't check the cars for passes but carry yours with you. There's a pay station but they also accept America the beautiful passes, etc. it's Federal level so your state pass won't be accepted.
We definitely enjoyed the visit!"
Tim Traveler
"Beautiful, peaceful spot just off Hwy 101 to see wildlife. Bird sanctuary attracts all kinds of birds. Every visit I see something new up close - bullfrogs, turtles, beaver, bald eagles, egrets, ducks, cormorants. Easy walking on flat wide trails and wood-planked boardwalks through marshy, brackish landscape. Great place to take small kids. Not too crowded. The boardwalk extends probably 3/4 mile out into the inlet. Come at different tidal stages and different seasons to enjoy changing flora and fauna. Small picnic area under old growth trees. Come in the early day or late day to get a parking spot. Midday it can be hard to find one. Bring binoculars and $3 cash for entry fee. No dogs or joggers. Lovely gift shop."
Anna Sommers
"Great Walk to do it with the family nice wooden boardwalk and view points especially where the waterfront is. It has a wooded pathway which is pretty far great place to let your kiddos run crazy. Their is also lots of different birds so you will see some people doing so really good bird watching."
Ricardo Merced
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The refuge is conveniently located just off I-5 in Lacey, Washington. Take exit 116 for Nisqually Road and follow signs. TikTok guides offer easy driving directions from I-5.
Public transportation options are limited. Driving is the most common and convenient way to access the refuge.
From Seattle, take I-5 South and follow signs for Nisqually Road (Exit 116). The refuge entrance is a short drive from the freeway.
Yes, it's well-signed from the highway and easily accessible.
The refuge features a network of well-maintained trails and boardwalks, including a mile-long estuary boardwalk. Maps are available at the visitor center. 
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is $3 per person (ages 16 and older), payable in cash at the pay station. America the Beautiful Passes are also accepted.
No, tickets are not required in advance. You can pay the entrance fee upon arrival.
Yes, the America the Beautiful Pass covers the entrance fee for the passholder and up to three other adults.
The refuge is generally open daily from dawn to dusk. The visitor center hours may vary, so it's best to check their official website for the most current information.
No, Washington State Discover Passes are not accepted as this is a federal refuge.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see a wide variety of birds, including eagles, herons, ducks, and cormorants. Bullfrogs, turtles, and beavers are also commonly spotted. +1
The estuary boardwalk and viewing platforms are excellent for bird watching. The trails through the marshes and wetlands offer great opportunities.
Yes, the flat, wide trails and boardwalks are very kid-friendly. It's a great place for a peaceful outing with children.
No, dogs are not allowed in the refuge to protect the wildlife.
Yes, there is a Norm Dicks Visitor Center and a gift shop offering nature-related items.
📸 📸 Photography
The estuary boardwalk offers dramatic landscapes and opportunities to photograph wildlife against the water. Early morning and late afternoon light are ideal.
Bird photography is very popular due to the abundance of species. Eagles, herons, and various waterfowl are common subjects.
General photography for personal use is permitted. Drones may be restricted, so check with the visitor center if you plan to use one.
Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best light for photography, often referred to as the 'golden hours'.
Telephoto lenses are recommended for wildlife photography. A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive estuary views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Nature Walkers & Birdwatchers
+1 Birdwatchers will be particularly delighted by the sheer variety of species present, making it a prime location for ticking off sightings. 📸 Photographers
The abundance of wildlife, particularly birds, provides excellent subjects for telephoto lens enthusiasts. Remember to be patient and respectful of the animals' space. The diverse habitats also offer opportunities for landscape and macro photography. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Honoring Billy Frank Jr.
His activism paved the way for greater environmental stewardship and highlighted the importance of Indigenous knowledge in conservation efforts. Visitors can learn more about his contributions and the history of the Nisqually Tribe at the visitor center and through interpretive signage throughout the refuge.
Exploring the Estuary Boardwalk
+1 This elevated walkway provides unparalleled access to the wetlands, mudflats, and tidal marshes, offering a unique perspective on the refuge's diverse habitats. As you walk, keep an eye out for various shorebirds, waterfowl, and marine life that call this area home. The boardwalk is designed to minimize impact on the environment while maximizing the visitor experience. It's a relatively flat and easy walk, making it accessible for most visitors, including families with children.
Wildlife Watching Opportunities
+1 Visitors can expect to see a wide array of birds, from majestic bald eagles soaring overhead to various species of ducks, geese, herons, and shorebirds foraging in the wetlands. Beyond birds, the refuge is also home to other fascinating creatures. Keep an eye out for bullfrogs basking in the sun, turtles along the water's edge, and even beavers constructing their dams.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit